A. H. Marford to Richard Yates

Equality Illinois May 16th/61

Hon Richard Yates:

Today word was received from Adjutant General's Office stating that the regiment for the 9th District was already filled before several companies through Capn M. R. Lawler were tendered and thereby excluding many who have been ready for over ten days awaiting orders. The consequence is the utmost indignity is offered to your warmest friends, who have succeeded in burying past differences and rushing to the rescue to save our glorious Union. I am afraid there has been some advantage taken of our Egyptian unionists

but through no fault of yours, it appears that Captain M. K. Lawler recd a commission under your authority to act as agent for this 9th Con Dist - in rec companies. Under these instructions the regiment was filled and he went to Cairo to report the same day before yesterday by telegraph. Now if there is anything wrong about his commission pray let us know. Give us the particulars, as one company made up in this vicinity was reported ready as soon or before Herrods of Shawneetown. The companies are all right and Republicans unite with me in having Captain Foster's company recd. We would like to have

Egypt fairly represented. There is but one feeling here and that is the Union and the Government must be sustained. To be sure we have a few secessionists scattered through the Country but they keep their mouths shut. They are afraid of their necks even here in Egypt. Let us have full particulars and advise us what we had best do, as many of the men of the company here are those who have made arrangements with their neighbors to take charge of their farms and families for the summer. Hoping you will remember your friend and answer promptly

I remain Yours A. H. Marford Equality Gallatin Co, Ills